Phil Jagielka: Ashley Cole still the best

Phil Jagielka stands by Ashley Cole as being the best in the business [GETTY]

Baines will return to the Three Lions starting line-up on Friday for the crunch World Cup qualifier against Montenegro after Cole pulled out injured.

The Chelsea star is suffering a rib problem that could also see him miss Tuesday's final Group H game against Poland and his absence is a huge blow to boss Roy Hodgson.

But Everton man Baines has been in the form of his life this season and will provide ample back-up for Cole when he wins his 20th cap.

Some supporters reckon Baines should start ahead of Cole even when he is fit. But his Toffees team-mate Jagielka insists the veteran defender remains the best in the business.

Jagielka said: "It is a difficult one. Do you get a place in the team and keep it until you deserve to lose it?

Ashley Cole injured his ribs whilst playing Norwich last week [PA]

“I think Ashley has performed to levels that he does not deserve to lose his place and Bainsey is one of my closest friends”

Phil Jagielka

"Or do you get a place in the team and lose it because you have done nothing wrong but someone else is potentially liked more by the press or coaching staff?

"I think Ashley has performed to levels that he does not deserve to lose his place and Bainsey is one of my closest friends.

"He has been fantastic for us at Everton but unfortunately for him, the person he has tried to nudge out of the way has performed very well, particularly in an England shirt."

Baines has become a dead-ball specialist for his club and Jagielka believes the 28-year-old can also deliver the goods for his country. He said: "He takes our free-kicks and penalties and he has fantastic quality delivering the ball."